At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the kitchen, develop seasonal menus, and inspire a talented team.
- Company: The Three Hills, a renowned pub in a charming Cambridgeshire village.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, tips, performance bonuses, and a supportive ownership team.
- Other info: Opportunity to manage exciting events and maintain high culinary standards.
- Why this job: Make your mark in a respected venue while enjoying a vibrant pub atmosphere.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Head Chef or strong Senior Sous with a passion for British produce.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
We are looking for an exceptional Head Chef to lead the kitchen at The Three Hills, a critically acclaimed pub with rooms set in one of the smallest villages in Cambridgeshire. Since reopening in 2017 following a full renovation, The Three Hills has built a strong reputation for delivering refined, seasonal food in a relaxed rural setting. Our approach is ingredient led, with a focus on quality, consistency, and thoughtful execution rather than unnecessary complexity. This is a pivotal role. You will take full ownership of the kitchen, working closely with the owners to continue evolving the food offering while maintaining the standards our guests expect.
What we're looking for:
- A proven Head Chef or strong Senior Sous ready to step up
- A genuine passion for seasonal British produce
- A calm, organised leader who can build and retain a happy, motivated team
- Someone commercially aware who understands margins, GP, and labour control
- A chef who values consistency just as highly as creativity
What the role involves:
- Full responsibility for menu development and execution
- Leading, training, and inspiring the kitchen team
- Maintaining high standards across all services (restaurant and private events)
- Overseeing a busy calendar of events and weddings, delivering high-quality food at scale without compromising on detail
- Working with trusted suppliers to source the best ingredients
- Managing food cost, wastage, and kitchen operations
What we offer:
- A well invested, beautifully designed kitchen and site
- A supportive ownership team that understands hospitality
- Competitive salary + tips + performance related bonus
- The opportunity to put your stamp on a highly regarded destination pub
- A balanced approach to service and working culture
This role would suit a chef who wants to cook serious food without the constraints of a formal fine dining environment - someone who enjoys the rhythm of a busy, quality driven pub and is equally comfortable delivering a standout restaurant service and exceptional large scale events. If you're ready to take on a leadership role in a standout rural venue, we'd love to hear from you.
Lead Chef: Seasonal British Cuisine & Large-Event Kitchen in Cambridge employer: Job Search Place Limited
The Three Hills offers an exceptional work environment for culinary professionals, combining a passion for seasonal British cuisine with a supportive and collaborative culture. Located in the picturesque Cambridgeshire countryside, our team enjoys a beautifully designed kitchen and the opportunity to lead a motivated group while crafting high-quality dishes for both intimate dining and large events. With competitive compensation and a focus on employee growth, we are dedicated to fostering a rewarding career for our chefs.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Chef: Seasonal British Cuisine & Large-Event Kitchen in Cambridge
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with other chefs, suppliers, and industry folks. Attend local food events or workshops to meet people who can help you land that Lead Chef role.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! If you can, organise a tasting event or pop-up dinner to showcase your seasonal British cuisine. This is a great way to demonstrate your passion and creativity while getting noticed by potential employers.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply – engage! When you find a job that excites you, reach out directly to the owners or hiring managers. A personal touch can make all the difference and show them you’re genuinely interested in their kitchen.
✨Tip Number 4
Keep your online presence sharp! Update your social media profiles and portfolio with your latest dishes and achievements. This not only showcases your work but also helps you connect with others in the industry. And remember, apply through our website for the best chance!
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Chef: Seasonal British Cuisine & Large-Event Kitchen in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:Let us see your genuine love for seasonal British produce in your application. Share any experiences or dishes that highlight your connection to the ingredients and how they inspire your cooking.
Be Organised:We want to know how you keep things running smoothly in a busy kitchen. Highlight your organisational skills and how you manage your team, especially during large events. A calm leader is key!
Know Your Numbers:Demonstrate your commercial awareness by mentioning your experience with margins, GP, and labour control. We appreciate candidates who understand the business side of the kitchen as much as the creative side.
Apply Through Our Website:Make sure to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at The Three Hills!
How to prepare for a job interview at Job Search Place Limited
✨Know Your Ingredients
Make sure you’re well-versed in seasonal British produce. Research local suppliers and be ready to discuss how you would incorporate their ingredients into your menu. This shows your passion for quality and your commitment to the ethos of The Three Hills.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led a kitchen team in the past. Highlight your ability to inspire and motivate others, as well as how you handle challenges. A calm and organised approach is key, so be ready to demonstrate that.
✨Understand the Business Side
Brush up on your knowledge of food costs, margins, and labour control. Be prepared to discuss how you would manage these aspects effectively while maintaining high standards. This will show that you’re not just a creative chef but also commercially aware.
✨Emphasise Your Event Experience
Since the role involves overseeing large events and weddings, share specific examples of your experience in this area. Talk about how you’ve delivered high-quality food at scale without compromising on detail, which is crucial for this position.
